Seven Snowmobilers Get Lost Near West Yellowstone

Seven snowmobilers were lost on Sunday evening near West Yellowstone. Eventually they were found by Search and Rescue in a canyon about 2 miles southwest of West Yellowstone, next to the South Fork of the Gallatin River.

The riders were able to call 911 around 6:30 p.m. on Sunday evening, reporting that they had gotten turned around and were unable to find their way back to West Yellowstone.

Using the GPS coordinates, rescuers were able to locate the snowmobilers who had abandoned three of their snowmobiles after getting them stuck. All seven snowmobilers were found wet and tired but otherwise uninjured. They were all escorted safely back to West Yellowstone.

Gallatin County Sheriff Brian Gootkin would like to remind snowmobilers that proper equipment and a thorough understanding of the area you’re entering are paramount to having a safe, enjoyable trip. Respect the rapidly changing weather conditions and time. Visibility can easily be substantially reduced making it easy to become disoriented. A basic survival kit containing food and water can save your life should you become lost.